We mustn't forget that the greatest heroes are often unsung.
As an example I'd cite the recce pilots who went over 'the day after' to take pictures of bomb damage. The enemy surely knew they'd be along, and were ready and waiting and in full daylight, at limits of range for the small a/c. Flying solo into that must have required extreme bravery, and accompanying skill to get into the right place over the target to get the pictures needed.
I recall reading Constance Bbabbington Smith's (sorry about spelling if wrong) book. She was the doyen of phot interpreters and for example found the Peenemunde rockets. She makes reference to deliberately not forming relationships with the pilots as she knew most were short lived.
And this applies to both/all sides.